A devastating wildfire is currently raging near Athens, forcing evacuations of at least 11 towns and villages in Greece. The fire started on Sunday afternoon and has spread to areas including the ancient town of Marathon and Mount Penteli north of Athens. At least three hospitals had to be evacuated due to the approaching flames. More than 670 firefighters, along with 17 waterbombing planes, 15 helicopters, and trucks, are battling the fire in challenging conditions exacerbated by strong winds and prolonged drought.
Greek authorities have issued multiple evacuation orders and are advising people to stay indoors with windows closed as thick smoke has severely impacted air quality across the Attic basin. The prime minister, Kyriakos Mitsotakis, has returned to Athens to deal with the crisis, which has been worsened by unprecedented temperatures following record-breaking heat in June and July, as well as the warmest winter ever.
The battle against the wildfire is being fought on two fronts, and authorities are continuously reinforcing their firefighting efforts. Images from the scene show helicopters filling up with water to fight the flames, as well as houses being threatened by the encroaching fire. The Greek minister of climate crisis and political protection has described the wildfire as “extremely dangerous” and efforts are being made to bring it under control and protect affected communities.
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Photo credit www.theguardian.com